Contention

Well, she was a very merry Christmas that's for sure! Thanks to all who sent me a thing or two for Christmas, it was a blessing for me; but more importantly, thank you for your efforts to serve and care for those around you. I've truly been blessed by each of your examples of love.

This week I was studying a wonderful general Conference talk by Marvin J. Ashton, which says "Where contention prevails, there can be no united effort in any purposeful direction." As we enter into a new year, may we ponder the following questions while setting new goals. 

Is there contention between me and my acquaintances?

Is there contention between me and my family?

Is there contention between me and myself?

As Elder Ashton said, we can't accomplish or even begin our newfound desires of we have contention clouding our path. If we truly have the intent to make personal progress, I believe it's worth the thought of healing said contention in order to find greater strength and power to change. But how do we do so? 

A quote from the apostolic document, The Living Christ, can answer such a question. "He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come." When our path becomes darkened, what better place to turn than the perfect path provided by our Savior. When we follow Him and his plan, we truly will find happiness. The light of His life will dispel the contention, and we will be able to become that which the Savior desires of us. His will provides perfect direction. 

If we do anything this coming year, may it be a greater desire to align ourselves with the mind and desire of Him who is mighty to save, even Jesus Christ.